Nehemiah 6:18

For many in Judah were bound by oath to him, since he was a son-in-law of Shecaniah son of Arah, and his son Jehohanan had married the daughter of Meshullam son of Berechiah.

Study Bible

For many in Judah were bound by oath to him
This phrase highlights the political and social alliances in Judah during Nehemiah's time. Oaths were serious commitments, often involving mutual support and loyalty. In the context of Nehemiah, these oaths could have been politically motivated, as Tobiah, the "him" referred to, was an adversary of Nehemiah. The binding nature of these oaths suggests a divided loyalty among the people of Judah, which posed a challenge to Nehemiah's leadership and the rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem.

since he was a son-in-law of Shecaniah son of Arah
This indicates a familial connection that Tobiah had with influential families in Judah. Shecaniah, son of Arah, is mentioned here, and the family of Arah is listed among those who returned from exile (Ezra 2:5). Such connections would have given Tobiah significant influence and access to the inner circles of Judah's society. Marriages were often used to solidify political alliances, and this connection would have strengthened Tobiah's position against Nehemiah's reforms.

and his son Jehohanan had married the daughter of Meshullam son of Berechiah
This further illustrates the network of alliances through marriage. Meshullam son of Berechiah is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:4 as one of the builders of the wall, indicating his involvement in the restoration efforts. The marriage between Jehohanan and Meshullam's daughter suggests a complex web of relationships that could complicate loyalties. These familial ties could have been a source of internal conflict, as they might have divided the community's support between Nehemiah's leadership and Tobiah's influence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in the book, Nehemiah was a Jewish leader who played a crucial role in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.

2. Judah
The region where Jerusalem is located, representing the remnant of the Jewish people who returned from exile.

3. Shecaniah son of Arah
A notable family in Judah, indicating the interconnectedness of influential families through marriage.

4. Jehohanan
The son of Tobiah, who married into another influential family, showing the political alliances formed through marriage.

5. Meshullam son of Berechiah
Another influential family in Judah, highlighting the network of relationships that could impact Nehemiah's mission.

Teaching Points

The Influence of Relationships
The passage highlights how personal and familial relationships can influence community dynamics and leadership. Believers should be mindful of how their relationships impact their faith and community.

The Challenge of Compromise
Nehemiah faced challenges due to the alliances formed through marriage. Christians today must be vigilant against compromising their values and beliefs for the sake of social or political gain.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
Despite external pressures, Nehemiah remained committed to God's mission. Believers are called to prioritize obedience to God over societal expectations or pressures.

The Power of Community
The interconnectedness of families in Judah shows the power of community influence. Christians should strive to build communities that encourage and uphold godly values.

Discernment in Leadership
Nehemiah's situation required discernment to navigate complex social and political landscapes. Christian leaders today need wisdom to lead effectively amidst diverse influences.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the familial alliances described in Nehemiah 6:18 reflect the broader social and political challenges Nehemiah faced in rebuilding Jerusalem?

2. In what ways can personal relationships impact our faith and commitment to God's mission, as seen in the alliances in Judah?

3. How does Nehemiah's response to these alliances inform our understanding of maintaining faithfulness to God's commands in the face of compromise?

4. What lessons can we learn from Nehemiah about the importance of community influence and how it can be used for both positive and negative outcomes?

5. How can we apply the principles of discernment and wisdom in leadership from Nehemiah's experience to our own lives and communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 10
This chapter discusses the issue of intermarriage with foreign nations, which was a significant concern for the Jewish community returning from exile. The alliances mentioned in Nehemiah 6:18 can be seen in light of these broader concerns about maintaining the purity and distinctiveness of the Jewish people.

Nehemiah 13
Later in Nehemiah, we see the consequences of these alliances, as Nehemiah takes action against those who have intermarried with foreign nations, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to God's commands.

Proverbs 29:25
This verse speaks to the fear of man being a snare, which relates to the political and social pressures Nehemiah faced from those who were bound by oath to Tobiah.